Sister to Hotel Tresanton in St Mawes and The Star in Alfriston (East Sussex), Hotel Endsleigh is the Devon outpost that makes up the gorgeous trio of Olga and Alex Polizzi hotels.

Located on the fringe of Dartmoor, the Grade I-listed former residence of the Duke of Bedford enjoys sweeping views across the Tamar Valley. The scenes from the restaurant and lounge windows are particularly lovely – especially with a glass of Devon’s Sharpham wine to hand.

Head chef Thomas Ewings is the man to tempt diners’ attention away from the rolling countryside. Smart dishes do justice to luscious local ingredients: try cured monkfish with smoked cod roe, Argentinian prawns and an orange and ginger dressing. Seasonal dishes include roast lamb rump served with summer vegetables and a globe artichoke barigoule.

The wood-panelled dining room, complete with roaring fire and original features, makes a fitting backdrop to such splendid feasting. Afterwards, take a stroll in the beautiful grounds, designed by 18th-century English landscape gardener Humphry Repton. The hotel’s contemporary horticulturists have been busy uncovering new paths for guests to explore – keep your eyes peeled for a magical house covered floor-to-ceiling with shells.

Trencherman’s tip

Find peaceful repose in this quiet rural setting in one of the charming bedrooms, or cosy up and drink in garden views from the five spacious suites in The Stables. The next morning, a sumptuous country-house breakfast awaits.